Nanaimo RCMP arrested a 19-year-old male Wednesday night after he allegedly robbed two 7-Eleven clerks at knifepoint at the 190 Nicol St. location.
The alleged thief entered the 7-Eleven shortly before 9:15 p.m. brandishing a large knife while demanding money from the till. He grabbed an undisclosed amount from the till and left on foot.
Once alerted, police immediately set up a containment area and tracked the suspect with the help of Boomer, a police services dog.
Boomer and his handler spotted an individual matching the suspect's description running along Prideaux Street. Boomer tracked the suspect and contained him. During the arrest, the suspect received several dog bites to his upper torso. He was treated at Nanaimo Regional General Hospital and released shortly after into police custody.
Officers searched the area for the knife but could not locate it.
Nanaimo RCMP spokesman Gary O'Brien said the incident left the 7-Eleven clerks shaken.
"No one was injured in the robbery, however, the clerks were obviously shaken and disturbed by the incident," he said. "Nanaimo RCMP Victim Services were called and are supporting those involved."
The majority of the money was recovered from the suspect. He is scheduled to make an appearance in Nanaimo provincial court.
reporter2@nanaimobulletin.com